transitive. To respond by applying (a charge, argument, accusation, etc.) to (also against, upon) the person who made it. Obsolete.

transitive. To return as an answer, (in early use) esp. in disagreement or defence; to say in reply; to respond; to retort. Chiefly with clause…

With up. = senses 5 5b 5c.

transitive. To produce (an answer) pat.

transitive. To say or utter by way of retort. Now only with direct speech or that-clause as object.

transitive. To return (a retort or rejoinder); to riposte.

transitive. To throw back, retaliate with. Also with that-clause as object: to retort.

transitive. To give in return or response. Chiefly with for that which is received, often as an exact equivalent, as to retaliate evil for evil, etc.

To catch or take (one) up with an abrupt or sharp remark. Also with short.

transitive. To say as a quick retort; to say (a witty or sharp reply) in answer to an earlier remark. Frequently with direct speech as object…

In extended use. transitive. With direct speech (or that-clause) as object: to utter or say as a riposte (riposte, n. 2). Also: †to respond to (a…

figurative and in figurative context. intransitive. To proceed, go ahead (with a speech, question, etc.), to ‘fire away’. Usually imperative, as…